A very beautiful half-hardy biennial, but difficult to cultivate. Some gardeners steep the seed in hot water before sowing it. The best way seems to be to sow it in July in 3-in. pots in equal parts of sandy peat and loam, ensuring good drainage, and place it in a cold frame, giving it very little water. When the leaves appear, thin out the plants to 3 or 4 in each pot. Replace them in the frame for a week or so, then remove them to a light, airy part of the greenhouse for the winter. During this period be careful not to over-water them. In spring shift them into well-drained 4-1/2-in. pots, using the same kind of soil as before, and taking great care not to injure the roots. Still give the least possible amount of water.

The ipomopsis grows to a height of 2 ft.

It flowers in July or August, if plenty of light and air be given.

Plant classification : Half-hardy, Biennial, Bears Flowers